If you have never ridden before, then none of the nuances make a lick of difference as your learning will have no comparison. Equipment makes very very little difference your first 20-50 days, while lessons, practice and technique will make every difference in progression and fun. Also nice gogs, comfortable feet and cozy clothing help.

How many days a year will u ride? Where?

Do you know how to skateboard or surf? Comfort standing sideways helps.

Forget all the camber talk.

Just buy something with a medium flex, stiff boards are a little harder to learn on, and if you buy a noodle it will be easier to learn but you will be pissed that you have a noodle one you do. You want 158-162 cm, a nice 2 inch range, you can go a little bigger or smaller, again not very important when learning.

Bindings: Burton Cartel, k2 company, salomon chief (these 3 bindings have been top all-mountains for their respective companies for years)

Or ignore everything I say and be like the guy who asked all these questions and then bought a Never Summer Raptor (AK board basically) for Michigan.

Thanks Snowklinger....Never surfed but had several skateboards years ago...comfortable standing sideways so all is good!

Where - Colorado...a few trips each year....most would rent, but I've decided to make the commitment and buy some decent gear. I seldom halfstep!